Composer

:

Ivor Novello

Genre

:

Musical Theatre

Style

:

Musical Theater

Compose Date

:

1939

The Dancing Years is a musical play composed by Ivor Novello, with lyrics by Christopher Hassall. The play premiered in London's West End in 1939 and was an instant hit. The plot revolves around the life of a Viennese composer, Rudi Kleber, who falls in love with a young English girl, Maria. The story is set against the backdrop of the First World War and the rise of the Nazi party in Germany. The musical is divided into three acts, each of which is set in a different time period. The first act is set in Vienna in 1911, where Rudi Kleber is a struggling composer. He meets Maria, a young English girl who is visiting Vienna with her family. They fall in love, but Maria's father disapproves of their relationship. Rudi is heartbroken when Maria returns to England. The second act is set in London in 1914, just before the outbreak of the First World War. Rudi has become a successful composer and is invited to London to conduct his latest work. He is reunited with Maria, who is now engaged to a wealthy Englishman. Rudi and Maria's love is rekindled, but their happiness is short-lived as war breaks out and Rudi is called back to Austria. The third act is set in Vienna in 1938, just before the outbreak of the Second World War. Rudi has become a successful composer in Austria, but the rise of the Nazi party threatens his career and his life. Maria, who is now married to Rudi's best friend, helps him escape to England. The play ends with Rudi and Maria dancing together, symbolizing their enduring love. The Dancing Years is known for its beautiful music, which includes songs such as "Waltz of My Heart" and "My Dearest Dear". The music is characterized by its romantic melodies and lush orchestration. The play also features several dance sequences, including waltzes and foxtrots, which add to the romantic atmosphere of the play. The Dancing Years premiered in London's West End in 1939 and ran for over 400 performances. It was later adapted for Broadway and enjoyed a successful run in the United States. The play has been revived several times over the years and remains a popular choice for amateur and professional theatre companies.

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